Thoughts on composition, learning from Ansel Adams

[Vaughn]

-It's not unknown for people to find valid meanings in art that the artist never intended. ...

Or to find meaning that the artist unconscienously intended. I have seen some powerful images that went 180 degrees for the artist's 'intention'.

[Tin Can]

Or to find meaning that the artist unconscienously intended. I have seen some powerful images that went 180 degrees for the artist's 'intention'.

Who/Why do we make image for?

Ourself or Other?

Money or Love?

[Vaughn]

Anyone who looks -- Communication, sharing, exploration

Both

Why the limit of possibilities?

[Tin Can]

Yes

[Drew Wiley]

Best advice I ever got was, "Never go to art school. It will ruin you." That was from the person who has more murals on the Natl Historic Register than anyone else in US history, along a four phD's, including one in Art History.

[Mark Sawyer]

Best advice I ever got was, "Never go to art school. It will ruin you." That was from the person who has more murals on the Natl Historic Register than anyone else in US history, along a four phD's, including one in Art History.

Sounds like that Ph.D. in Art History ruined him...

[Drew Wiley]

I repeat, best advice I ever got. My own tip: throw away every photo manual ever written containing the term "composition". That's what your eyes are for.

[Leszek Vogt]

Best advice I ever got was, "Never go to art school. It will ruin you." That was from the person who has more murals on the Natl Historic Register than anyone else in US history, along a four phD's, including one in Art History.

Indeed, Drew, *those who know best* (big photo names included) offer advise, but it's up to an individual to follow or interpret this their own way. We are a diverse tribe and many are enlightened enough to consider advise, but still be responsible for their own actions or vis styles, no ? Anyhoo, when I went to school I received more insight into art and other related subjects, and unlike your advise, I was enriched by it.

Les

[Jac@stafford.net]

I repeat, best advice I ever got. My own tip: throw away every photo manual ever written containing the term "composition".

Indeed, as evinced by your acclaimed samples on your web site.

[Tin Can]

I was prohibited from Art, Shop classes and who knows what else, right after Sputnik. School changed to science. If you tested well enough you were trapped. I saw that damn satellite and bought into the madness.

I dropped out of college age 19 and went to work. I was tired of BIG Science.

Age 45 I went to Jr college and found Art. She was right there. I was already making sculpture. I had a very expensive blast gaining an MFA at age 51. Went to Art school by day. Worked night shift 26 nights a month and even drank some beer.

Sure wish I met Art earlier when we were both young.

Now I'm old and gotta Duck and Cover once again. I watched the speech today...